Nominees are awarded for “translating the idea of Jewishness to the general reader” and past winners include Amos Oz, Zadie Smith, Oliver Sacks, Otto Dov Kulka, David Grossman, George Steiner, Thomas Harding and Michel Laub.

“For 40 years the prize has celebrated the broad spectrum of talented and remarkable writers who have elevated Jewish themes, making them accessible and compelling for the general reader,” said Cheyette.

“As judges for 2017 we are honoured to be part of this heritage. We are a diverse group and we look forward to sharing the different perspectives we bring to the table in our mission to find the next prize winner.”